Official: Amir Khan-Danny Garcia, July 14th Las Vegas

By James Slater - This week, former IBF and WBA 140-pound ruler Amir Khan would have either been celebrating his having gotten revenge over Lamont Peterson, who controversially out-pointed his last December (the result possibly subject to change due to Peterson’s subsequent failed drugs test embarrassment), or he would have been licking his wounds after having suffered a second loss to the Washington D.C man..

As we know, last Saturday’s fight fell apart - costing fight fans a considerable sum - and now Khan will likely never get the opportunity to avenge his close defeat. But Khan moves on, and it has been reported today by a number of sources how “King Khan” will face reigning WBC light-welterweight champ Danny Garcia, on July 14th, at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. Forget the belt(s) for a minute; this fight is a great match-up all by itself: young fighter Vs. young fighter.

Two of the top names at 140, Khan-Garcia could go either way. Both men are certainly up for the fight and both guys feels their speed will be the key to victory.

“I feel like this is just how it’s supposed to be: the best versus the best, both of us in our prime and giving the fans a great fight,” Garcia said as quoted by Mail online. “ I’m just happy - I feel I have what it takes to beat this guy. I’ve watched Khan a lot. He’s a good fighter, but I don’t think he’s what people say he is, getting all this credit.

“I feel he will leave himself open for some big shots and we’ll see if he can take them. I’m going to hit him with stuff he won’t see. I can’t wait.”

Neither can Khan, who was naturally bitterly disappointed at not being able to fight last weekend. Khan plans to take out his frustration on the unbeaten Garcia, but he has been nothing but respectful to “Swift” via his Twitter page:

“May the best man win on July 14th. Khan vs. Garcia,” Khan wrote.

Garcia, from the tough streets of Philly, arrived on the world stage back in March, when he ripped the WBC crown from an ageing but still dangerous and proud Erik Morales. Now 23-0(14), the 24-year-old won by a wide margin on the cards yet he had to take some lumps. Suffering a busted nose, Garcia battled through the pain and the blood to win his biggest fight to date. Useful wins over recognisable names Nate Campbell and Kendall Holt also shine on Garcia’s record, and he believes he is just getting started on the road to greatness.

Khan cannot afford a third defeat, no way - while Garcia is young enough to be able to bounce back from a loss; especially a close loss. This one could well be nip and tuck all the way. I don’t see a KO. I feel Khan’s edge in experience, at having fought on the big stage so many times, will allow him to pull out a close points victory. There’s no way can anyone count out Garcia, however.